Those in the Millet, County of Wetaskiwin or Leduc County area who wish to help victims of the horrifying Fort McMurray wildfire can drop donations off right at a local service provider.
The Millet Food Bank has stepped forward to volunteer as a collection hub for certain donations for victims of what could be one of the costliest and most destructive natural disasters in Canadian history.
Food bank executive director Debbie Herman said the food bank is accepting cash donations, food donations and other supplies. She said the best option to help people who’ve lost their homes and possessions is to simply donate cash. “They are encouraging money right now at this time,” said Herman May 5.
With transport and airport issues, getting large donations into the Fort McMurray area right now would be difficult. Herman said the Millet Food Bank can ensure donations are delivered to the food bank serving Fort McMurray.
Herman said Millet is also accepting food donations, which are in great demand, and other supplies like baby supplies and toiletries.
She added Alberta Food Banks is setting up a registry of what food and/or assistance is available from the provincial food bank network and other offers of assistance. If any companies, individuals or organizations reach out and wish to donate food, transport, or other items please send an email with this information: Subject line of Wood Buffalo Fire; Full name of company/organization/individual wishing to donate; Full names of a secondary contacts; Direct phone lines and/or cell phone numbers; Email addresses; What is being offered – please provide as much detail as possible (see notes below); Physical location and address of items or services being offered and any other pertinent information.
Herman noted anyone who wants to donate funds to support the Wood Buffalo Food Bank do so through the following websites:
Wood Buffalo Food Bank website: http://ow.ly/4npgGc
Canadian Red Cross Alberta Fires Emergency Appeal: http://ow.ly/4npiPU
Herman said those interested in donating can contact her by calling 780-387-2214 or emailing milletfoodbank@gmail.com. The food bank is open Tuesdays and Thursdays 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for drop-offs.